It is not always the case where a freshman has a big role early on with a varsity sports team. But Mission Bay softball is getting major contributions from pitcher Keira Bucher in 2019.
According to head coach Vince Ichihara, he has known Bucher since she was 8.
“There was something about her that stood out on the field and it was apparent she was going to be something special,” Ichihara commented. “K-Bar brings toughness, skill, composure and confidence to our team. She’s a freshman, but is looked up to by a lot of girls on the team. She leads by example and is a big part of what we do to be successful.”
Beach & Bay Press caught up with Bucher for an interview.
BBP: How did you get started with playing softball?
KB: It started when I was little. We moved to California when I was 5, and we moved into a set of condos. Right next door was a girls’ fast pitch league. I wanted friends and wanted to have fun so I started playing.
BBP: What do you like most about being a pitcher?
KB: I like the automatic self-accountability. I know when someone gets a hard hit that lands somewhere, it’s not me having to decide “oh yeah it’s so and so’s fault, not mine.” But when you’re the one in control of the game you know it has to start at your mistake. It’s also a challenging position to play and allows me to isolate myself and focus. 
BBP: As a freshman, do you feel any pressure out there, or is being so young helpful?
KB: I feel a lot of pressure, no doubt about it. I know I have a lot of expectations and I know I have to help because Cassidy (West) is hurt too. I don’t see how much being young could help me.
BBP: What are the keys to being a successful pitcher?
KB: The keys are to remain focused. You’re always going to have more family and friends on the sidelines; it’s easier for you to get distracted than in travel ball. Because of your constant playing and practicing for seven innings, you don’t get as much of a chance to fix an issue that started in a game. For example, if I start a bad habit in a travel ball game, I finish my four innings then I have a whole week to fix the issue. With high school, I start a bad habit in one game and then I have another the next day, and another after that. I never get a chance to fix it meaning the mistake starts to repeat itself and damage my pitching. You have to remain focused with everything you do as a pitcher, even if you’re just warming up.
BBP: What are your goals this season?
KB: It would be amazing if we were to win Division III championships. As a freshman starting pitcher, I know it’s ambitious, but I’m confident in my team.